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Eligible Duke Energy Florida customers can earn a $7.50 monthly bill credit by charging their electric vehicles during designated off-peak hours. The program requires a Level 2 charger and allows customers to enroll up to two EVs per account.
Orange County residents dig into food waste composting pilot
Orange County’s residential composting pilot drew interest from more than 600 people, with more than 220 residents participating through free composting bins or food waste collection service trials. Enrollment has closed, but participant feedback will help guide potential improvements and expansion. more
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Strong Towns Apopka and local partners will host West Orange Trail Beautification Day on Saturday, October 24, from 8 to 10 am. Residents and families can help with native plantings, take part in art activities, and attend a dedication to celebrate the collaborative project.
Strong Towns Apopka invites volunteers to beautify West Orange Trail this weekend
Strong Towns Apopka and local partners will host West Orange Trail Beautification Day on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 8 to 10 a.m. Residents and families can help with native plantings, participate in art activities and attend a dedication celebrating the collaborative project. more
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UF/IFAS Extension Orange County’s November schedule features eight programs ranging from financial education for renters and homebuyers to backyard chicken care and wildlife habitat. Events run Nov. 4-19, with registration required and fees ranging from free to $12.51.
UF/IFAS Orange County offers November classes on housing, gardening and backyard chickens
UF/IFAS Extension Orange County’s November schedule features eight programs ranging from financial education for renters and homebuyers to backyard chicken care and wildlife habitat. Events run Nov. 4-19, with registration required and fees ranging from free to $12.51. more
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A typical stormwater retention pond in a Florida community is both a visual amenity and a poorly functioning pollution control device. New standards were supposed to make the stormwater system more effective, but the Florida DEP removed their teeth.
Florida’s stormwater cleanup promises deserve more than paper credits
Florida’s approach to stormwater pollution is drawing criticism over whether credits sold to developers will represent measurable improvements in water quality. For Apopka, the debate raises questions about protecting local waterways and sustaining Lake Apopka’s restoration. more
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Below-average September rainfall prolonged dry conditions across portions of the St. Johns River Water Management District, with all 18 counties below their 12-month rainfall averages. Near Apopka, Rock Springs and Wekiwa Springs maintained normal flows despite very low districtwide groundwater levels.
September rain falls short as dry conditions persist across the district
Below-average September rainfall prolonged dry conditions across portions of the St. Johns River Water Management District, with all 18 counties below their 12-month rainfall averages. Near Apopka, Rock Springs and Wekiwa Springs maintained normal flows despite very low districtwide groundwater levels. more
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Dirt bike riders line up for a race at the Pax Trax MX motocross track in Bunnell. Volusia County officials want to build their own motocross track on land that was bought for conservation. The owner says the new Volusia track would put Pax Trax out of business.
Volusia County motocross proposal sparks fight over conservation land
Volusia County’s proposal to build a motocross facility on land purchased with conservation funding has drawn opposition and a lawsuit. In this commentary, Craig Pittman examines the environmental concerns, financial questions, and competing interpretations of what voters intended the land-buying program to accomplish. more
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A University of Florida study found the primary mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue was more common than researchers expected in residential yards in Indian River County. Participants frequently reported bites while gardening and walking dogs, highlighting how everyday activities close to home can bring people into contact with mosquitoes.
UF study finds dengue-transmitting mosquito species common in residential yards
A University of Florida study found the primary mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue was more common than researchers expected in residential yards in Indian River County. Participants frequently reported bites while gardening and walking dogs, highlighting how everyday activities close to home can bring people into contact with mosquitoes. more
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Hope CommUnity Center has postponed Apopka PRIDE 2026 because of Saturday’s forecast for inclement weather; a new date will be announced. Heavy rainfall and saturated roads will also close the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive to motorized vehicles Oct. 9–12.
Weather disrupts Apopka PRIDE and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive weekend plans
Hope CommUnity Center has postponed Apopka PRIDE 2026 because of Saturday’s forecast for inclement weather; a new date will be announced. Heavy rainfall and saturated roads will also close the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive to motorized vehicles Oct. 9–12. more
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A Florida wetland cypress dome, via Everglades National Park. Developers have tried tor years get DEP put in charge of issuing federal wetlands permits, but judges have ruled that that system violates the Endangered Species Act.
Congressional wetlands bill could affect development review in Apopka
A congressional proposal could return federal wetlands permitting authority to Florida, potentially changing one layer of environmental review for developments in Apopka. The issue has a local connection as city officials recently reviewed wetland mitigation associated with the Bronson Lake Drive extension at The Ridge. more
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A UF/IFAS study suggests that removing large reproductive female Burmese pythons could have a greater impact on population control than capture totals alone indicate. Researchers developed a demographic weighting system and tested machine-learning models to help agencies focus limited removal resources.
UF study targets large female pythons to improve removal efforts
A UF/IFAS study suggests that removing large reproductive female Burmese pythons could have a greater impact on population control than capture totals alone indicate. Researchers developed a demographic weighting system and tested machine-learning models to help agencies focus limited removal resources. more
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Orange Audubon’s Bird-friendly Native Yards Tour will showcase eight Central Florida home landscapes on Sunday, October 4, from 9 am to 2 pm. Proceeds support the planned Natural History Museum at Apopka Birding Park, and participants should register before Oct. 2 for access to a gated-community stop.
Native yards tour to support future museum at Apopka Birding Park
Orange Audubon’s Bird-friendly Native Yards Tour will showcase eight Central Florida home landscapes on Sunday, October 4, from 9 am to 2 pm. Proceeds will support the planned Natural History Museum at Apopka Birding Park, and participants should register by October 2 to access a gated-community stop. more
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Local governments, small utilities, homeowners associations and multifamily properties can apply early for the St. Johns River Water Management District’s water conservation rebates. The program covers up to half of eligible project costs, with a $10,000 annual limit per applicant.
Water conservation rebates open early for Apopka-area groups and properties
Local governments, small utilities, homeowners associations, and multifamily properties can apply early for the St. Johns River Water Management District’s water conservation rebates. The program covers up to half of eligible project costs, with a $10,000 annual limit per applicant. more
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A prescribed fire in the UF/IFAS West Florida Research and Education Center forest, with a cogongrass patch embedded in a matrix of native habitat.
UF study finds invasive cogongrass can make Florida fires spread faster
A University of Florida study found that cogongrass can increase fire spread and flame length under certain conditions. Researchers say controlling the invasive grass may also reduce fire risk around homes and other properties. more
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Recent rainfall has improved conditions in parts of the St. Johns River Water Management District, but groundwater, lakes, and rivers remain affected by a prolonged dry period. Phase III water restrictions remain in place in affected areas as officials urge residents and businesses to conserve water.
Recent rainfall brings relief, but regional water recovery remains slow
Recent rainfall has improved conditions in parts of the St. Johns River Water Management District, but groundwater, lakes and rivers remain affected by a prolonged dry period. Phase III water restrictions remain in place in affected areas as officials urge residents and businesses to conserve water. more
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Orange County Mosquito Control has added new laboratory technology to detect viruses in mosquito samples more quickly. The PCR testing capability could deliver same-day results, reduce costs, and improve mitigation efforts.
Orange County adds faster testing for mosquito-borne illnesses
Orange County Mosquito Control has added new laboratory technology to detect viruses in mosquito samples more quickly. The PCR testing capability could deliver same-day results, reduce costs, and improve mitigation efforts. more
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Orange County is developing its first Urban Forest Master Plan to guide how it plants, protects, and maintains trees over the next 20-plus years. Residents can help shape the plan by sharing feedback through the county’s Engage Orange portal.
Orange County begins work on first Urban Forest Master Plan
Orange County is developing its first Urban Forest Master Plan to guide how trees are planted, protected and maintained over the next 20-plus years. Residents can help shape the plan by sharing feedback through the county’s Engage Orange portal. more
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Lightning striking over neighborhood.
Fatal lightning strike offers warning for Apopka residents
A fatal lightning strike near a Celebration hotel demonstrates how quickly a developing thunderstorm can become deadly. The incident warns Apopka residents not to wait for heavy rain or frequent lightning before seeking shelter. more
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The St. Johns River Water Management District averaged 6.84 inches of rainfall in August, nearly matching the month’s long-term average. However, groundwater remained very low, and every county in the District continued to face a 12-month rainfall deficit.
August rainfall offers relief, but groundwater remains very low across water district
The St. Johns River Water Management District averaged 6.84 inches of rainfall in August, nearly matching the month’s long-term average. However, groundwater remained very low, and every county in the District continued to face a 12-month rainfall deficit. more
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The coastline in Steinhatchee remains covered in debris on October 3, 2024, following Hurricane Helene.
Sierra Club warns Amendment 3 could weaken Florida’s storm defenses
Sierra Club Florida has announced its opposition to Amendment 3, arguing that the proposed property tax changes could undermine local storm preparations and other public services. If approved by at least 60% of voters, the measure would significantly increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes. more
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A Honda Mimo automatic robotic lawnmower at the West Florida Research and Education Center in Jay, Florida.
Robotic mowers could produce healthier Florida lawns, UF/IFAS study finds
UF/IFAS research found that robotic lawn mowers can maintain and improve Florida turf, including St. Augustine grass, despite their lower cutting height. Their frequent mowing removes small amounts of grass at a time, encouraging healthier and denser lawns. more
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Grand Prize-winning photograph of a Roseate Spoonbill.
Florida photographers honored in 2026 Audubon Photography Awards
A photograph of a Roseate Spoonbill taken in St. Augustine earned Jacqueline Burke the Grand Prize in the 2026 Audubon Photography Awards. Two other Florida residents received honorable mentions for images featuring a Common Nighthawk and a Barred Owl. more
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Orange County Mosquito Control is concentrating spraying efforts in targeted areas after health officials confirmed a locally acquired case of dengue fever. Residents are encouraged to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes.
Orange County targets mosquito spraying after locally acquired dengue case
Orange County Mosquito Control is concentrating spraying efforts in targeted areas after health officials confirmed a locally acquired case of dengue fever. Residents are encouraged to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes. more
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UF/IFAS will host a free Landscape, Nursery, and Controlled Plant Production Field Day on September 16 at its Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka. Visitors can tour the facilities, meet researchers, and explore work involving horticulture, controlled-environment agriculture, and space biology.
UF/IFAS invites public to explore plant research at Apopka field day
UF/IFAS will host a free Landscape, Nursery, and Controlled Plant Production Field Day on September 16 at its Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka. Visitors can tour the facilities, meet researchers, and explore work involving horticulture, controlled-environment agriculture, and space biology. more
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An aerial view shows a coal-fired power plant with cooling towers and smokestacks. Photo: Kelly / Pexels
Environmental groups challenge federal order keeping Orlando coal plant open
Three environmental groups are asking a federal appeals court to overturn a U.S. Department of Energy order keeping an Orlando coal unit operating beyond its planned retirement. The groups argue the extension is unnecessary and could cost ratepayers an average of $21 more per month. more
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UF/IFAS Extension Orange County will offer a full schedule of educational programs in September covering health, housing, gardening and urban agriculture. Classes are available online and in person, with costs ranging from free to $50.
UF/IFAS Extension Orange County announces September classes and workshops
UF/IFAS Extension Orange County will offer a full schedule of educational programs in September covering health, housing, gardening and urban agriculture. Classes are available online and in person, with costs ranging from free to $50. more
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